How to Throw an Unbeatable Halloween Bash This Year

oct 15, 2023

Halloween is right around the corner, and that means it's time to put in some prep work.

If you've taken it upon yourself to be the party planner for this year's festivities, you have the opportunity to throw a bash that neither you nor your friends will soon forget. All it takes is following a few tips, so get ready to take some notes on our guide to throwing an unbeatable Halloween party in 2023.

Set a Theme

Okay, yes, "Halloween" itself is kind of already a theme, but you can step it up a notch for your Halloween bash by setting a more specific theme, particularly when it comes to the costumes. You could go with making everyone dress as movie and TV characters, or you could go full-on Barbie dreamhouse bash (perfect for 2023 after the success of the Barbie film over the summer). Whatever you do, go all out.

Shutterstock woman having barbie party Photo of dreamy barbie girl enjoy weekend event entertainment wear fancy striped dress isolated pink color background

(via Shutterstock)

Step Up the Snacks

Sure, you could just set out some bowls of store-bought candy and chips, but if you want to throw a truly unbeatable bash, you'll want to step up your snack game with ideas like:

Tony's Chocolonely's milk chocolate caramel sea salt Tiny Tony's: $42.79
Baketivity's Halloween Bundle: $113.97
An extra spooky charcuterie board: $39

Tony's Chocolonely milk chocolate caramel sea salt 32% Tiny Tony's

(via Tony's Chocolonely's)

Also read about: The Most Haunting Halloween Home Decor

Pick the Perfect Playlist

If you've already chosen a theme, make sure the playlist matches. If your theme is more general, you'll want to decide whether you go full spooky on the music or if you want to play something packed with favorites your friends already know and love. We suggest perusing Spotify (or your preferred streaming app) beforehand to prevent any last-minute aux ownership changes during your party.

Make It a Sleepover

Why let the fun stop when bedtime rolls around? Throw your Halloween bash during "Halloweekend" (the weekend before Halloween) so that your friends can actually trade their costumes in for PJs at some point in the party and spend the night. Since actual Halloween falls on a Tuesday this year, this is the perfect way to make the most of the holiday.

Shutterstock friends having sleepover Excited multiethnic young ladies bride and bridesmaid having fun together sit on bed with pink balloons, happy women friends wear white bathrobes towels on head laugh celebrate hen spa party concept

(via Shutterstock)

Also read about: These Adorable Party Favors for Teens Will Take Your Celebrations to the Next Level

DIY a Photobooth

Order some cheap photo props online, download a timed photo app if you don't already have one and get ready to create some of the best (or at least funniest) photos during your Halloween party. It's a great way to make sure everyone makes it in for a photo, and it'll truly make your bash an unforgettable one since everyone can get their own copy.

Throwing a perfect party doesn't need to be scary this Halloween—it just takes a little bit of planning. If you want more scary good tips for this year's festivities, click HERE for our list of the biggest trending Halloween costumes of 2023.